The Guarataro Fruit plant ( Vitex orinocensis )

The Guarataro (Vitex orinocensis) 

Botanical Name: Vitex orinocensis

Common Name: The Guarataro

General Information:

Shrub or tree, often with many trunks and an irregular, rounded crown.

Typically grows 8 - 18 meters tall.

Native to South America - Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, the Guyanas.

Light green to yellow fruit, about 1 cm long.

Sweet flavor, but with a rancid smell.

Hardwood used in construction.

Bole diameter can be 18 - 25 cm.

Wood is variable in color (yellowish-brown through deep brown, olive-green or olive-brown).

Texture is fine to moderately coarse, grain is straight, and it takes a high polish.

Additional Information:

The heartwood of South American species in this genus varies in color and has moderate to high lustre.

Durability ranges from moderately durable to very durable against decay fungi.

Used for furniture, millwork, veneer, plywood, carpentry, mallet heads, chisel handles, and flooring.

Cultivation Details:

Bloom Time/Fruiting: 2 to 3 Years

Maintenance Required: Moderate